The magical island of Rhodes may be the crown jewel of the Dodecanese islands, but it's also your gateway to some of Greece's most captivating islands. While there is so much to see and do while holidaying on this beautiful island, it is also perfectly positioned for exploring many nearby gems that each offer their own unique charm and character.
Whether you're looking to visit traditional fishing villages where pastel-coloured houses tumble down to azure harbours, or seeking wild landscapes where ancient traditions thrive, you can experience it all on the islands near Rhodes.
With so many different places to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start when planning island-hopping trips from Rhodes. In this article, we share the best islands to visit while holidaying in Rhodes, to help you plan your dream trip to this picturesque corner of the archipelago.
The good news is that with Olympic Holidays' carefully crafted island-hopping packages, you can explore these magnificent destinations without the hassle of independent planning.
Which are the Best islands to visit from Rhodes?
There are so many beautiful islands close to Rhodes that you can easily pay a visit to during your holiday. No matter what you’re looking for, there will be somewhere nearby for you to visit. In fact, Rhodes just so happens to lie a stone’s throw away from some of the best islands in Greece.
If you’re looking to go island hopping from Rhodes and wondering which are the best islands to visit, we’ve lined up our top recommendations below.
1. Symi
Picture-perfect Symi delivers everything you've dreamed of in a Greek island escape, wrapped up in one breathtaking harbour. One of the highlights of this charming island is the stunning neoclassical mansions that lie clustered in its main town.
These gorgeous properties can be seen in every shade from sunshine yellow to deep terracotta, creating what many consider the most beautiful harbour in all of Greece.
While tiny enough to explore in a day, Symi's excellent seafood tavernas and beautiful scenery easily make it one of the best places to go on day trips from Rhodes.
Distance & Access
If you’re looking for easy day trips from Rhodes to other islands, Symi is one of the most accessible. It lies around 21 nautical miles (39 km) from Rhodes, and during the high season (May - September), there are up to 12 daily departures.
The journey takes just over an hour, making it perfect for those who are looking to experience a completely different Greek island atmosphere without venturing too far from their Rhodes base.
Highlights
One of the most beautiful islands to visit from Rhodes, it’s hard to top Symi’s stunning harbour. The bright neoclassical houses line the harbour’s electric-blue waters, offering the most gorgeous setting.
Beyond the postcard-perfect port, the Monastery of the Archangel Michael Panormitis is another highlight in Symi. The monastery is located on the southern coast of the island, overlooking the bay, and is dedicated to the Archangel Michael, who is considered the protector of the island.
It has become quite a popular tourist attraction, with many keen to catch a look at its dazzling 18th-century frescoes.
Ideal For
Symi is one of the Greek islands to visit near Rhodes for travellers who are looking to experience authentic Greek island charm without the crowds that flock to more famous destinations.
If you're someone who enjoys wandering narrow streets lined with traditional architecture, browsing local boutiques, and dining at waterfront tavernas where the catch of the day was literally caught that morning, Symi could be the place for you.
Symi is also a great island to visit for couples on romantic trips in Rhodes, thanks to its beautiful natural scenery, tranquil beaches and relaxed atmosphere.
2. Tilos
Peaceful and unspoiled, Tilos is a hidden gem that offers a perfect escape from the crowds. The island has been designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, making it a haven for rare wildlife and pristine natural beauty that feels worlds away from the busier islands near Rhodes.
The island's rolling hills are carpeted with wildflowers in spring, while its coastline features secluded pebble beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling. Traditional stone houses dot the landscape, and the pace of life here moves at a wonderfully slow rhythm.
Tilos is the kind of place where you'll spend mornings bird-watching along coastal paths and afternoons lounging on empty beaches, with perhaps just the sound of goat bells echoing across the hillsides for company.
Distance & Access
Tilos sits approximately 65 nautical miles northwest of Rhodes, making it easily accessible for a peaceful island-hopping adventure. The journey takes you through some of the most beautiful waters in the Dodecanese.
There are regular ferry connections from Rhodes to Tilos, typically running 2-3 times per week during the summer season. For the most seamless experience, consider joining an organised island-hopping tour that includes Tilos in its itinerary.
Highlights
Despite being one of the smaller Greek islands near Rhodes, Tilos punches well above its weight when it comes to natural attractions. The island is famous for its incredible biodiversity, home to over 400 plant species and numerous rare birds, including the endangered Bonelli's eagle.
The medieval castle of Megalo Chorio offers spectacular panoramic views, while the abandoned village of Mikro Chorio tells fascinating stories of island life from centuries past. Livadia Beach and Eristos Beach provide perfect spots for swimming and relaxation, often with hardly another soul in sight.
Ideal For
Tilos is perfect for travellers seeking tranquillity and natural beauty near Rhodes. It's an ideal destination for nature lovers, bird watchers, and anyone wanting to experience authentic Greek island life without the crowds.
The island is also excellent for those interested in sustainable tourism and environmental conservation. With its network of hiking trails, pristine beaches, and welcoming local community, Tilos offers the perfect balance of relaxation and gentle adventure for visitors looking to truly unwind.
3. Kos
Kos has a fascinating history, renowned for being the birthplace of Hippocrates, the father of medicine. Along with its exciting past, it is also one of the best places to go island hopping from Rhodes for beautiful beaches.
The island boasts a gorgeous shoreline dotted with excellent swimming and sunbathing spots. Famed for its fantastic nightlife scene, Kos is also one of the liveliest Greek islands to visit from Rhodes, with plenty of bars and clubs where you can dance the night away.
Distance & Access
So, how far is Rhodes from Kos? The island sits 61 nautical miles (114 km) from Rhodes and is easy to get to via ferry, taking between two and three hours depending on which type of ferry you get.
Highlights
One of the highlights of Kos is the sheer range of things to do on the island. Famously bike-friendly, you can go through palm-lined streets, before exploring impressive castle ruins, dine in excellent restaurants and end the night by hitting one of the many fantastic nightlife spots.
For those interested in the island’s history, you can visit the Archaeological Site Of The Harbour Quarter, where you can see the ancient Agora and Roman mosaics, as well as the medieval castle of the Knights of St. John, which guards the harbour.
In terms of coastline, the island boasts some of the Dodecanese's finest sandy beaches, particularly around Tigaki and Marmari, where crystal-clear waters meet soft golden sand.
Ideal For
Kos is one of the best Greek islands near Rhodes for travellers wanting the best of both worlds: fascinating historical sites and excellent cuisine, as well as lively nightlife and beautiful beaches.
The superb range of things to do on the island also makes it a great place to visit for families. Whether you’re looking for a day trip from Rhodes or the next stop on your itinerary, there are so many child-friendly adventures to enjoy on the island, especially along its coastline, where you’ll find beautiful beaches with gentle waters and plenty of nearby amenities.
4. Kalymnos
The landscape of Kalymnos makes it a fantastic place to visit while holidaying in Rhodes. Here you’ll find striking limestone cliffs and cave-scattered coastlines renowned for being some of the best rock-climbing destinations in the world.
Alongside these outdoor adventures, Kalymnos is also known for its fascinating sponge-diving traditions, charming fishing villages and gorgeous beaches.
Distance & Access
Kalymnos lies 79 nautical miles (147 km) from Rhodes and can be reached via ferry. However, the duration of the journey varies a lot depending on which type of ferry you get and which operator you go with. It can take anywhere from 2 hours and 45 minutes to 8 hours and 20 minutes.
Highlights
One of the highlights of Kalymnos has to be its incredible natural scenery. The fascinating landscape includes caves, mountain peaks and intricate rock formations. The island’s vertical rock faces have made it a world-renowned climbing destination.
Another unique highlight is its famous natural sponges, which are harvested by brave local sponge divers who plunge into the depths of the surrounding waters without any equipment.
Kalymnos is also a great island to visit from Rhodes if you’re looking for nice beaches. Myrties Beach, in particular, is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, flawless shores and excellent snorkelling opportunities.
You can also explore impressive sea caves like Kefalas, attend the renowned Climbing Festival, and wander through charming villages such as Emporios, Myrties, and Vathy. The island’s museums offer a deeper look into the rich history of its sponge diving heritage.
Ideal For
Kalymnos is one of the best islands around Rhodes for active travellers, thanks to its fantastic rock-climbing opportunities. If you’re an experienced climber, you can take on world-class routes, while those newer to the sport can still get in on the fun in the gentler climbing areas.
It also offers one of the top day trips from Rhodes for nature-lovers simply looking to explore some beautiful Greek landscapes.
5. Halki
The smallest inhabited island of the Dodecanese, Halki is a charming destination home to just 330 inhabitants, most of whom reside in just one village. If you’re looking for a quaint and unspoilt island to visit near Rhodes, Halki is the place to go.
Here you will find untouched beauty in a place where you can embrace simplicity and a traditional vibe, while taking in stunning architecture, visiting flawless beaches and enjoying the warm hospitality of the locals.
Distance & Access
Looking for the closest islands to visit from Rhodes? Halki sits just a stone’s throw away, approximately 33 nautical miles (61 km) from the island. This proximity makes it perfect for day trips, though you can also stay for longer to completely unwind on this quiet island.
Highlights
Tiny, tranquil, and utterly enchanting, one of the most special things about Halki is how it has remained relatively unaffected by mass tourism and is known as the “Island of Peace and Friendship”.
It offers complete serenity alongside a taste of authentic Greek life. Some of the highlights of Halki include its authentic local cuisine, beautiful secluded beaches and unique architecture.
Here you can soak up the rays on a secluded beach, before heading to a waterfront taverna for authentic local food and visiting the charming harbour village of Emborio, which showcases magnificent 19th-century mansions built by sponge merchants.
Ideal For
While this is a great spot for those who seek peace and privacy, it is also incredibly close to Rhodes, making it the perfect day trip if you want to get away from tourists and recharge your batteries.
Halki is a brilliant island to visit from Rhodes for travellers who crave tranquillity and authentic experiences away from crowded tourist destinations. If you're seeking a place where you can hear nothing but the gentle lapping of waves and the distant sound of church bells, Halki provides the perfect escape.
Summary
Rhodes is the perfect launchpad for exploring some of Greece's most incredible islands, each offering unique experiences that complement your main holiday. Whether you're drawn to Symi's picture-perfect harbour, Karpathos's authentic traditions, or the spiritual significance of Patmos, Olympic Holidays ensures you experience these destinations with expert guidance and seamless logistics.
Looking to visit the island of Rhodes? Olympic Holidays are here to help you plan your dream holiday to Rhodes, as well as the nearby gems. Check out our multi-island hopping page for inspiration, or get in touch with one of our friendly team members who will be happy to help.